The Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali is a prominent and iconic landmark in Tbilisi, Georgia, honoring the legendary founder of the city and one of the most revered figures in Georgian history.

• Location: The statue is strategically placed on the Metekhi Cliff, directly adjacent to Metekhi Church, overlooking the Mtkvari River and offering sweeping panoramic views of Old Tbilisi and the Narikala Fortress. This location emphasizes its connection to the city’s origins and its historical significance.

• Subject: The monument depicts King Vakhtang I Gorgasali mounted on horseback. Vakhtang Gorgasali (c. 439 or 443 – 502 or 522 AD) was the King of Iberia (ancient eastern Georgia) in the 5th and 6th centuries. He is famously credited with founding Tbilisi and played a crucial role in consolidating the Georgian kingdom and defending it against foreign powers, particularly the Sasanian Persians.

   

• Artistic Style and Features:

  • Imposing Bronze Sculpture: Created by renowned Georgian sculptor Elguja Amashukeli and unveiled in 1967, the statue is a large, imposing bronze sculpture.

  • Dynamic Pose: King Vakhtang is shown in a dynamic, majestic pose, astride a powerful, rearing horse, often interpreted as being poised for battle. This reflects his identity as a warrior-king and his unwavering determination.

  • Warrior Attire: The king is typically depicted in full armor, showcasing his military prowess. His sobriquet “Gorgasali” itself is said to mean “wolf’s head” or “wolf-bodied,” supposedly derived from the shape of his helmet, which featured a wolf’s head.

  • Symbolism: The statue embodies the strength, resilience, and unity of the Georgian people, serving as a powerful symbol of national identity and Georgia’s rich historical and cultural heritage. It stands as if forever watching over the city he established.

• Historical Context (of the King, reflected in the statue): The statue reminds visitors of King Vakhtang’s significant legacy, including:

  • Founding of Tbilisi: The legend states that he founded Tbilisi after his falcon fell into a hot spring during a hunting trip, leading him to discover the area’s healing waters and decide to establish a city there.

  • Christianity and Autocephaly: He was a staunch Orthodox Christian who worked to strengthen the Georgian Church and is credited with its attainment of autocephaly. He is canonized by the Georgian Orthodox Church.

  • Defense of Georgia: He led numerous campaigns against invaders and worked to expand and consolidate Georgian territories.

     

The King Vakhtang Gorgasali Statue is a must-see for anyone visiting Tbilisi, not only for its artistic merit but also for its profound connection to the city’s origins and Georgian national pride.